Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey has issued an executive order to study allowing single stair construction in some residential buildings, with the goal of changing the state’s building code to increase housing production and lower costs.
The state’s building code requires two exit stairs for buildings above three stories or with long interior corridors. Healey claimed that requirement makes it harder to build mid-rise development on smaller parcels, and she has established a technical advisory group to explore if single stair construction in residential buildings higher than three stories will make it easier build more housing while ensuring safety.
The advisory group will include fire and public safety services professionals, building officials, architectural experts, and accessibility advocates.
“We’re all about making it easier to build more housing across our state to drive down costs for everyone,” said Healey. “While the double stair requirement plays an important role in ensuring safety, it’s also holding us back from the type of housing construction we need to meet demand. This group will include the best subject matter experts and fire safety officials to explore how we can make it easier to build housing by allowing single stair construction, while continuing to protect our residents and first responders.”
